Save Festive, pillowy donuts decorated to resemble Santas iconic red suit—perfect for holiday breakfasts or parties.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all purpose flour:
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar:
- 2 tsp baking powder:
- 1/2 tsp salt:
- 1/2 cup whole milk:
- 2 large eggs:
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted:
- 1 tsp vanilla extract:
- Vegetable oil: for frying
- 2 cups powdered sugar:
- 2 3 tbsp milk:
- Red gel food coloring:
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips or melted dark chocolate:
- 8 yellow chocolate candies (such as M&Ms) or yellow fondant for belt buckles:
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- Step 2:
- In a separate bowl, mix milk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
- Step 3:
- Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined (do not overmix).
- Step 4:
- Heat 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C).
- Step 5:
- Using lightly floured hands, shape dough into 8 balls. Flatten slightly and use a floured bottle cap or small cutter to create holes in the center.
- Step 6:
- Fry donuts in batches, 1 2 minutes per side, until golden brown. Drain on paper towels and cool completely.
- Step 7:
- For the glaze, whisk powdered sugar with 2 3 tbsp milk until smooth. Tint with red food coloring until vibrant.
- Step 8:
- Dip cooled donuts into red glaze and set on a rack. Let set 10 minutes.
- Step 9:
- For Santas belt, pipe or draw a horizontal line of melted chocolate or arrange mini chocolate chips across each donut. Add a yellow candy or fondant square in the center as the belt buckle.
- Step 10:
- Allow decorations to set before serving.
Save Notes
Pair with hot cocoa or coffee for a cozy treat.
Required Tools
Mixing bowls Whisk Deep frying pan or Dutch oven Slotted spoon Cooling rack Piping bag or zip top bag (for decorating)
Allergen Information
Contains Wheat (gluten), eggs, milk, and possible soy (in chocolate products). Check all decorations for nut traces if allergies are a concern.
Save Enjoy making these festive donuts that bring holiday cheer to every bite.
Kitchen Tips & Answers
- → What flour type is best for these donuts?
All-purpose flour works well to achieve a soft, tender crumb suitable for frying.
- → How do I achieve the red glaze color?
Mix powdered sugar with milk and add red gel food coloring until you reach a vibrant, even hue.
- → Can I bake instead of frying these donuts?
While frying gives the traditional texture, baking is possible but may yield a different, less crispy finish.
- → What decorations create the belt effect?
Use melted dark chocolate or mini chocolate chips for the belt, and yellow candies or fondant for the buckle detail.
- → Any tips for handling hot oil safely?
Use a deep frying pan with enough oil, monitor temperature carefully, and avoid overcrowding to maintain steady heat.